Community Highlights: Meet Joanie Smeester of Outpouring

Today we’d like to introduce you to Joanie Smeester

Hi Joanie Smeester, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
Outpouring began the way many good things do—with a deep friendship, a lot of heart, and one small “why not?”

We’re two moms, Joanie and Natasha, who’ve always loved giving meaningful, personalized gifts. When someone we love is hurting, celebrating, or just going through a tough season, our instinct is to show up with something that says, “I see you. I care.” That’s how our first gift box was born—a grief box designed to say what words often can’t.

We both had a longing to do something more—something creative, personal, and rooted in compassion. For Joanie, it was about finally stepping into something she had dreamed of for years but hadn’t yet found the confidence to pursue. For Natasha, it was about embracing a new season in life with open hands and a willingness to take a leap of faith, to show her kids (and herself) that it’s never too late to start something new.

Our faith is the heartbeat of Outpouring. The verse Romans 12:15 guides our mission: “Rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn.” We want to be there for people in every season, with gifts that meet them in their highest highs and lowest lows.

Starting this business has been equal parts terrifying and thrilling, but also incredibly joyful. We laugh a lot. We dream a lot. And we trust that even in the uncertainties, God is writing a beautiful story—one that we’re grateful to be living out together.

So when people ask us how we started, the truth is: it began with a friendship, a shared passion, and two little words that changed everything—“why not?”

Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
Definitely not a smooth road—more like a slow and winding one. Starting a small business with just two products and two people wearing all the hats has been humbling, to say the least.

The biggest challenge has been getting our idea and our grief box in front of a larger audience. Every time we share it with someone, the response is overwhelmingly positive—they get it, they feel it—but breaking through the noise online and building awareness as a new, small brand is tough. We’re learning that marketing is a whole different beast!

We’ve spent the past several months figuring things out as we go—diving into branding, packaging, SEO, and researching different online storefronts. Every step is a learning curve, but we’re embracing it. We’ve had great conversations with other small business owners who’ve generously shared insights and encouragement, and we’re always brainstorming what’s next. We currently have one product fully launched and are close to finishing our second. There are so many ideas waiting in the wings—we’re just taking it one intentional step at a time.

It’s slow, it’s challenging, but it’s ours. And that makes the journey worth it.

Appreciate you sharing that. What should we know about Outpouring?
Outpouring is a heartfelt gift company that creates thoughtfully curated boxes to support people through life’s highs and lows. Whether someone is grieving, celebrating, or simply navigating a hard season, Outpouring offers meaningful, compassionate gifts designed to bring comfort, encouragement, and hope. With a mission rooted in Romans 12:15—”Rejoice with those who rejoice, and mourn with those who mourn”—Outpouring aims to help people show up well for others when words aren’t enough.

How do you think about happiness?
Joanie – Simple, quiet moments bring me the most joy—early mornings with a hot cup of coffee, a chance to read, pray, and settle my heart before the day begins. That stillness helps me stay grounded.

I’m also deeply fulfilled by meaningful connection. I love conversations that go beneath the surface, where people feel seen and known. That’s part of what inspired Outpouring in the first place—creating something that speaks to the heart.

Movement brings me happiness too—whether it’s dancing in the kitchen or getting a good workout in. It helps me feel strong, present, and alive.

And of course, my greatest joy comes from my family—my kids, my husband, the chaos and the sweetness of everyday life with them. They’re my biggest “why” behind everything I do.

Natasha-

What makes me happy? Oh man…my family, friendship, the ocean, Chai Tea, puppies, plants, gardening, the mountains… the list goes on and on and as I sit in reflection of this very simple question. I guess what makes me most happy is this life I am blessed to call mine. The children who call my name in times of need and offer cuddles at a moments notice, my husband who stands in support of my crazy ideas, the friends who not only share in laughter when life is light and fun but who also surround me in support and stand in the gap when I struggle to see myself. What makes my heart SO very happy is the Father who knew what I needed before I could see it for myself, the Father who knew my heart’s desires and stood with open arms surrounding me in forgiveness and grace. My heart is redeemed, my sin is forgiven and I am a child of the most High God and that makes my the most happy!

Pricing:

• Beautifully Shattered Box $60
• less than sending a bouquet of flowers
• The Smash Bag $30

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.outpouring.life
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/outpouring_life/